British track legend Mo Farah had few peers in distance championship running but he may find a few better than him on the road in today’s London Marathon.

The 35-year-old - who achieved the Olympic double of 5000/10000 metres champion twice - couldn’t hope for a better send off in his second tilt at his home marathon than for Queen Elizabeth II due to press the start button from a specially erected podium at Windsor Castle.

Related Articles

The warm temperatures expected won’t ruffle Farah - although those ‘fun runners’ who are planning to dress up as a knight and Paddington Bear have been advised to have a rethink over the sagacity of donning those outfits - but he is realistic about his chances.

“That would be a great start for me.” With Kipchoge expected to have a go at breaking the world record - presently 2hr 02min 57sec set by compatriot Dennis Kimetto inthe 2014 Berlin Marathon - Farah is loathe to fall into the trap of trying to keep pace.

I’m listening to Gary (Lough his coach and husband of women’s marathon world record holder Paula Radcliffe) and soaking up the miles.

There are so many guys!” The women’s race sees another Kenyan Mary Keitany favoured to repeat her victory from last year but also to complete a collection of world records.

Keitany broke British heroine Paula Radcliffe’s women-only record last year when she timed two hours, 17 minutes and one second, and also drew alongside the Briton with three wins in the race.

READ MORE (Gulf Times)

London Marathon 2018 road closures and travel advice for the race on SundayThe Sun

Can Mo Farah win the London Marathon? Why is he now racing over 26.2 miles?Express.co.uk

Showdown on streets of London as stars clashDaily Nation

Farah faces tough examination in London MarathonGreater Kashmir

London Marathon 2018: how to recover from running a marathon, according to a ...Evening Standard

London Marathon: from Mo Farah to the Weirwolf, via epic women's duelThe Guardian

When can I watch the London Marathon 2018 on TV and what channel is it on?Gloucestershire Live

15 Years On, Paula Radcliffe Reflects on Her 2:15:25 Marathon World RecordLetsRun.com

Heartbreaking reason brave mum-of-two running London Marathon after life ...Mirror.co.uk